Technology Posts

When working with security systems, there are only certain types of smoke detectors that can directly integrate with an alarm panel. But many people overlook the fact that almost all high-voltage smoke detectors can still be integrated indirectly using smoke detector listening modules.

Smoke detector listening modules are wireless devices designed to actively listen for the Temporal 3 sound of an activated smoke detector. By law, life-safety smoke detectors must produce the Temporal 3 sound, which consists of three (3) consecutive tones, followed by a short pause, and then three (3) more tones with this pattern repeating continuously. Both high-voltage 110V smoke detectors and wireless battery powered smoke detectors will produce the same sound. This means that you can use wireless listening modules with both types.

All new construction is required to be outfitted with high-voltage smoke detectors. As a result, it's very likely that you already have these devices in your home or business. You should test these devices to make sure that they are working, and replace any devices that are non-functional. Then you can use a listening module to integrate the devices with your security system and your alarm monitoring service. If you have a network of interconnected hardwired smoke detectors, then you can use a single listening module to takeover the entire network!

Like all security and life-safety products, your smoke detector listening module will need to be tested regularly. Before doing any testing, you should put your system on test mode by either contacting your central station directly or by using the MyAlarms.com feature if you are an Alarm Grid monitored customer. Then activate the smoke detector's sounder by using its test button (if applicable) or by directing canned smoke into its vents. Make sure that your listening module detects the sound and triggers an alarm on your system. Remember that the listening module should be mounted within six (6) inches of the detector for best results.

We offer two (2) smoke detector listening modules on our website. The Interlogix SLX-AD-T3 is for 319.5 MHz systems, while the Encore FireFighter FF345 is for 345 MHz systems. Check and make sure you purchase the correct model that will successfully enroll with your wireless alarm panel. If you aren't sure which one to get, then you should contact us at support@alarmgrid.com, and we will be happy to help. Our support hours run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

There's much more to the potential of your security system than just protecting your home or business. Most modern alarm panels offer the necessary built-in hardware to establish a complete smart automation network that you can control from virtually anywhere in the world using your phone.

In the world of smart devices and Internet of Things (IoT), an automation refers to an action that occurs automatically. The trigger for an automation to occur could be something like a sensor faulting on your security system, your system going into alarm, or even the time of day. Automations can also be triggered manually either at the panel or through a mobile app on your smartphone. Most Alarm Grid customers use the Total Connect 2.0 App or the Alarm.com App depending on which system they have. Remember, remote automation control is only included with the Silver Level Plans and higher for Alarm Grid.

There are all sorts of automation devices you can pair with your system and control remotely. Smart lights are a great place to start. It's very easy to replace an existing in-wall switch or dimmer module. There are also plug-in lamp modules that can be set up with needing to use any special tools or equipment. Just plug in the unit, enroll it with your automation hub, plug in a lamp to the designated socket, and enjoy. Setting up automations for your smart lights is perfect for those absentminded moments where you forget to turn off the lights before leaving. You can even have light turn on designated times while you are on vacation to make it look like you are home!

Smart door locks also represent a population automation option. These allow you to lock or unlock your door even while you are away from home. This can be very useful if you forgot to lock up before heading out for the day, and you can also use it to let trusted people inside, such a scheduled maintenance worker, a house maid, or your friend who arrived just a little too early. Many users also set up locks to respond automatically. For example, you might have your back door set to automatically lock whenever you set your security system to Arm Away.

Last and certainly not least, smart thermostats offer some really cool functionality, and they can provide you with tremendous savings in your energy expenses. You are most likely already familiar with programmable thermostats that you can use to have the temperature adjusted automatically at set time intervals. But smart thermostats take things to the next level. You can have your thermostat automatically switch to a more energy efficient level as soon as you arm for the system and leave. And if your automation platform allows for geofencing, then you can have the thermostat activate automatically once you back within a certain distance from your home. It's also really nice to be able to adjust the temperature remotely if needed, in case you have some invited guests arrive while you are away. You can easily monitor your energy usage.

Getting started with home automation for security systems is super easy. You should start by finding out if your panel already has a Z-Wave controller built-in. Most new wireless panels have this functionality. If your panel doesn't support Z-Wave, then there may be an add-on to provide the capability. Then you can start building the perfect smart home! If you have any questions about home automation, or if you would like to learn more about or monitoring plans, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We check emails from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

One bright spot in the world right now is the perseverance of the DIY security industry. Most technical support agents, sales agents, and trained emergency dispatchers have made a seamless transition to working from home. It's impressive to see the industry weather the storm so well.

A positive trait for the DIY security industry is its ability to quickly adapt to changing global conditions and major ongoing events. Throughout the global COVID-19 pandemic, people have had to make significant changes and compromises to their daily routines. Every industry is different, and the reality is that some sectors have had an easier time adapting and conforming to the evolving world we live in than others. We are proud to say that the DIY security industry has served as an ideal role model and example of how businesses should adapt to an unpredictable and ever-changing society.

When you consider the basic building blocks of the DIY security industry, it begins to make sense how companies like Alarm Grid are able to thrive during these times. In order for DIY home security to work, the end user needs an alarm panel with an activated communicator and enrolled sensors. With a wireless security system, all of this equipment can be physically installed by an end user. Most security system installations do not require a professional installer. The end user can follow a simple do-it-yourself process and complete the installation on their own. This eliminates the need for a physical person to come out to your home to perform your installation.

On the back end of alarm monitoring service, everything can be done remotely. Your system's alarm monitoring communicator sends signals to dedicated servers, such as those operated by Alarm.com and AlarmNet360 from Resideo. The signals are then re-routed to an interactive monitoring and automation platform and/or a central monitoring station. Traditionally, a central station operator needed to be on-site for regular operation. But in our advanced age of computing, the same tasks performed by an operator at a dedicated central station can now be performed just as effectively from home. This allows the operators to take precaution against the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic by working remotely and refraining from any large gatherings that may promote the spread of the virus.

As many people now have extra time on their hands and are looking to do stuff around the home, setting up a home security system has become a popular option. Companies like Alarm Grid make it possible to order all your equipment online, receive it at your house, and set it up all by yourself. From there, a trained activator can activate the system remotely. Activators from Alarm Grid are currently working from home, but they can perform the same necessary tasks as what they would perform from our headquarters office.

It's thanks to the amazing technology we have that companies like ours are able to thrive and success in spite of unprecedented health concerns. Our team is very fortunate and thankful to be able to succeed in these challenging times. We would also like to send a special thank you to the front-line doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals and scientific experts who are working so hard to help others. These incredible individuals have offered us all hope and optimism for a better, healthier future.

If you decide that you want alarm monitoring service for your home, then Alarm Grid is ready to work with you. There will be no need to have anyone come out to your home or interact with you in person. All of our support and assistance is handled over the phone and online, so you can safely practice social-distancing. To get started, take a look at our monitoring page to learn more about our monitoring plans. You might also want to explore our website a bit to see some of the different security systems we recommend.

Remember, our team is best reached by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. We have technicians on the clock from 9am to 8pm ET M-F, and they are happy to provide virtual help and assistance. You can remain in the comfort of your own home, and our technicians will so the same. Pretty soon, you will have a robust and complete security system ready for when we are able to venture out into the world again. For now, we are thankful that we can continue doing what we do best, and we look forward to hearing from you soon.

Nortek and 2GIG made waves last year with their release of the 2GIG GC3e System. This panel is known for its exceptional build quality and its robust and powerful features. It is a great option to consider if you are new to alarm monitoring. Here are five (5) things we love about the GC3e.

1) Many Sensor Options

When you get a 2GIG GC3e System, you will have the choice of many sensor lineups. Arguably the most powerful are the encrypted 2GIG eSeries Sensors. These are the only encrypted sensors available for the system, and they offer an impressive wireless range of 350 nominal feet. Other wireless sensor options include the 2GIG 345 MHz Sensors and the Honeywell 5800 Series Sensors. And if you have hardwired sensors, you can bring them over using a Honeywell 5800C2W or a 2GIG TAKE-345.

2) Partitioning Support

Referred to as "Smart Areas", the 2GIG GC3e provides support for up to four (4) individually controlled partitions. If you aren't familiar with partitioning for alarm systems, it basically means splitting the system up into different sections that can each be armed and disarmed individually. Each Smart Area Partition can be assigned its own selection of zones its own set of user codes. This is perfect for businesses, multi-family homes, guest homes, rental properties and more.

3) Z-Wave Plus

The 2GIG GC3e features a built-in Z-Wave Plus controller for using smart home automation devices. You can add a variety of devices, including lights, locks, thermostats, and more to create a truly customized smart home that meets your needs. These connected devices can be controlled directly from the panel, and it is even possible to establish smart scenes to have multiple home automation devices activate automatically based on a set schedule or with certain system events.

4) Alarm.com

If you want to truly unlock the potential of your GC3e system, you will want to get it set up with an alarm monitoring plan that includes access to Alarm.com. This is an interactive service platform that you can use to control your GC3e from anywhere using a web browser or a mobile app on your phone. Once you have accessed Alarm.com, you can arm and disarm the system, control Z-Wave home automation devices, view the live feed for Alarm.com Security Cameras, and more.

5) Great Build Quality

While this is hard to measure, we are honest when we say that the 2GIG GC3e arguably has the best build quality out of any alarm panel we have ever seen. The panel is extremely tough and very well-made. It doesn't feel flimsy like some other security panels, but it is still sleek and compact enough that you will be proud to display it on your wall. If mounting an alarm panel isn't your style, then the 2GIG CP-DESK can be added to rest the system on a sturdy table or desk.

Get a 2GIG GC3e System from Alarm Grid!

If you have decided that the 2GIG GC3e System is for you, then we would love to help you get started! You can email us at support@alarmgrid.com if you have any questions about the GC3e or our monitoring services in general. Our technical support specialists are available from 9am to 8pm ET M-F to provide you with the help you need. We look forward to hearing from you!

One of the best security systems on the market right now is the Honeywell Lyric Controller. While it's clear that Resideo is currently hard at work on their next-gen alarm panel, the Lyric still remains a viable option for many users. Here are five (5) things we love about the Lyric.

1) HomeKit Compatibility

As of March 2020, the Lyric is hands-down the absolute best HomeKit compatible security system on the market. This is great news for iOS users who are looking to control their system remotely using Siri voice commands, as well as users who want to have their HomeKit smart home devices activate automatically with certain system events. For more on getting a Lyric set up with Apple HomeKit, we encourage you to check out this helpful FAQ.

2) IP-Only Monitoring

Don't get us wrong. We always recommend dual-path monitoring with both IP and cellular. But we also understand that some users will want to save money by going IP-only. The Lyric is the newest and most advanced security system that can be set up for alarm monitoring using an IP-only path. This makes it eligible for the less expensive Bronze and Silver Level Monitoring Plans from Alarm Grid (Self or Full). You don't even need to add a communicator, as the system already has a built-in WIFI card. Of course, you can also add a Honeywell LYRICLTE-A (AT&T LTE) or a Honeywell LYRICLTE-V (Verizon LTE) if you want to use the system for cellular or dual-path monitoring. This will require an upgrade to one of the Gold plans.

3) Total Connect 2.0

Total Connect 2.0 represents one of the best features for the Honeywell Lyric Alarm System. You can use this robust interactive platform to control your Lyric System from pretty much anywhere using a web browser or a mobile app on your smartphone. By accessing Total Connect 2.0, you can arm and disarm the system, control programmed Z-Wave devices, view the live feed for Total Connect IP Cameras, and so much more. Make sure that the monitoring plan for your Lyric includes access to this great platform.

4) Backwards Compatibility

The Lyric proved that just because you get a new security system doesn't mean you need to throw out your old sensors. All of the uni-directional 345 MHz Honeywell 5800 Sensors work with the Lyric, which is important for users upgrading from older Honeywell LYNX Touch Panels. And users with hardwired sensors could easily bring most of them over using a Honeywell 5800C2W Wired to Wireless Converter. Either way, users have a good option to set up the Lyric without having to buy new sensors. And if you do want to buy new sensors, the encrypted Honeywell SiX Sensors are an excellent option.

5) Ease of Use

If you are familiar with other Honeywell Security Systems, then you will have no problem making the jump over to the Lyric. The system features a very similar UI to that of the LYNX Touch Systems, and its programming has been largely retained. While there are some minor updates to freshen things up and to provide a more user friendly experience, the Lyric System is almost identical to its predecessors. Overall, it is very easy for end users to set up, thereby making it the perfect DIY alarm panel.

Get Your Lyric Controller Now!

Our team is happy to help you get started with a brand-new Lyric Controller! If you want to learn more about the Honeywell Lyric System or the monitoring services we provide, please contact us at support@alarmgrid.com. Our support team is available from 9am to 8pm ET M-F to help you find the perfect alarm system for your unique needs. We look forward to hearing from you!

Arguably the best and most innovative alarm panel on the market right now is the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. This security system is jam-packed with great features that help it stand-out from other alarm panels on the market. Here are 5 reasons we love the IQ Panel 2 Plus from Qolsys.

1) PowerG Sensor Support

PowerG Sensors are some of the best in the industry with their ability to be used up to 2,000 feet away from the IQ Panel 2 Plus in open air and their 128-bit AES encryption that provides comfort and peace of mind in knowing that they are not prone to wireless hacking or takeovers. The PowerG offerings are continuing to grow and expand, and you should have no trouble finding new sensors within this robust lineup.

2) Automatic Bluetooth Disarming

At this time, the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus is the only panel to offer the option for automatic Bluetooth disarming. The way that this works is you will enroll your smartphone to the system. When you get home, the panel will detect your phone using wireless Bluetooth technology and automatically disarm the system. No more racing to disarm the panel in time or fumbling around with a mobile app. Of course, you can also turn off this feature if that makes you feel more comfortable.

3) Choice of Legacy Sensors

The IQ Panel 2 Plus is a rare example of a security system that we can safely recommend regardless of what older panel you are upgrading from. With three (3) legacy sensor options (319.5 MHz, 345 MHz, 433 MHz) you can bring your existing sensors over to your new IQ Panel 2 Plus, no matter which panel is being replaced. There are also wired to wireless converters available like the Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-F and the Honeywell 5800C2W that can be used to support converting wired sensors to wireless.

4) Built-In Communicators

Normally, a new system will require you to buy some type of communicator to get it online and set up for alarm monitoring. But not the IQ Panel 2 Plus, as it already has everything needed for alarm monitoring built inside. The system features an LTE cellular communicator (AT&T LTE or Verizon LTE), which meets the Alarm.com requirements for cellular connectivity. It also includes a built-in WIFI card, making it dual-path ready right out of the box.

5) Sleek Design

An often overlooked aspect of the IQ Panel 2 Plus is its sleek and crisp stature, which truly proves that an alarm system doesn't have to be an eyesore or a big ugly mess that you put out of sight. With it's slim, tablet-like design and overall thin profile, the panel is something you can feel proud to display on your wall or rest on a table or desk using its included table stand. It even offers a picture frame slideshow feature that can be used to display photos when the panel is not in use.

Get Your IQ Panel 2 Plus Today!

We're happy to help you get started with a brand-new IQ Panel 2 Plus System! If you have any questions about the panel or our monitoring services, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. Our team of experts is here from 9am to 8pm ET M-F to help you find the perfect security system and alarm monitoring plan for your needs. We look forward to hearing from you!

As you may recall, Qolsys recently released Firmware Version 2.5.0 for the IQ Panel 2 and IQ Panel 2 Plus. One thing we forgot to explain in greater detail is the new ability for IQ Panel 2 users to receive temperature sensor alerts from Alarm.com. Alerts can be sent via email and/or text.

We posted awhile back about the inability for Alarm.com users to receive alerts regarding temperature sensor activity. This issue has now been addressed with Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus Firmware Version 2.5.0. While this doesn't fix the issue for other security systems, it does provide an effective solution for anyone using temperature sensors with the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 or IQ Panel 2 Plus. Being able to receive remote alerts from Alarm.com regarding temperature sensor activity can be very important in case of a broken HVAC system causing an overly hot or cool home.

The solution comes from the new Sensor Group - 25 Non-Reporting. This Sensor Group is available for use with environmental sensors, including any temperature, flood and freeze sensors. When a zone uses this Sensor Group, activating the associated sensor, will result in an alert being sent to Alarm.com, but not a central monitoring station. Alarm.com can then automatically forward the alert to the end user through text and/or email, depending on their notification settings.

If you are looking for a temperature sensor for a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, we generally recommend the DSC PG9905 Temperature Sensor. As a PowerG Sensor, the PG9905 will work with all versions of the IQ Panel 2 Plus. There are also various legacy RF temperature sensors available if you cannot go the PowerG route for whatever reason. If you have an original IQ Panel 2 System, then you will want to consider 319.5 MHz temperature sensors, such as the Qolsys IQ Temp.

In addition to Sensor Group - 25 Non-Reporting, Qolsys has also added another new Sensor Group - 53 with Sensor Type - High Temperature. This programming option can also be used with environmental temperature sensors like the ones listed above. It will allow the user to report to both Alarm.com and Central Station, for high priority environmental sensors where the user doesn't want to take a chance on missing a notification.

Remember that you will need an alarm monitoring plan with Alarm.com service to start using the Alarm.com platform. Examples of compatible monitoring plans include the Gold and Platinum Level Plans from Alarm Grid (Self or Full). We offer free technical support for all Alarm Grid monitored customers, and we are happy to help you set up a compatible temperature sensor for your IQ Panel 2 or IQ Panel 2 Plus if you are experiencing difficulties. Just email us at support@alarmgrid.com. Our support hours run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F, so keep that in mind when emailing our support team. We look forward to hearing from you!

We're back with a new video recap! We apologize that we were unable to post this recap yesterday. Since our Florida office has been closed, we won't be able to shoot new videos until it reopens. But we are working to resume business as usual as soon as possible. For now, let's check out our newest videos!

Adding a Wireless Zone to a Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Jorge shows you how to add a new zone to a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Security System. The process is the same, regardless of which version of the IQ Panel 2 or IQ Panel 2 Plus System you are using. You need to put the system in its auto-enrollment mode and then fault the sensor you are adding to transmit a signal to the panel. The system should then receive the signal and allow you to add the sensor to the system and configure the settings for that zone.

Adding a 2GIG GB1 to the 2GIG GC3

Your friend Jarrett shows you how to add a 2GIG GB1 Glass Break Detector to a 2GIG GC3 Security System. The 2GIG GB1 is a glass break detector that transmits signals at 345 MHz. The device actively listens for glass break events. It must hear both the low-pitched "thud" of an object striking against the glass and the high-pitched "shattering" of the glass breaking in order to activate. This dual-detection method helps prevent false alarms on the system.

Using a 5853 Glass Break Detector with a 2GIG GC3

Jarrett explains how you can use a Honeywell 5853 Glass Break Sensor with a 2GIG GC3 Alarm System. The Honeywell 5853 is part of the Honeywell 5800 Sensor lineup, and it transmits signals at a wireless frequency of 345 MHz. The sensor can be conveniently auto-enrolled with the GC3 System by putting the panel into its auto-enrollment mode and then activating the tamper cover for the sensor. You will need to adjust the Loop Number for the sensor when programming.

Using WIFI as Primary and GSM as Backup On My Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Jorge explains how the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System uses both cellular and IP connectivity to communicate with the Alarm.com servers. Alarm.com requires that any system connected with its servers has a cellular communicator installed and registered. The IQ Panel 2 System has both an LTE cellular communicator and a WIFI card built inside. Most users will set up the system to communicate across both pathways for optimal performance and reliability. This will require a monitoring plan that includes cellular connectivity.

Adding a Remote Keypad to the Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Jorge covers the process for adding a Qolsys IQ Remote Keypad to a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Security System. In order for the pairing to work, the IQ Remote Keypad and the IQ Panel 2 System should be connected with the same WIFI network. If no WIFI is available, then the system and keypad can connect using a wireless access point (AP). Once you have completed the pairing process, you should test the IQ Remote by arming and disarming the system to ensure that it is working properly.

Using the Chime feature On a Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Jorge explains how chimes work on a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Security System. A chime is a quick sound the system makes when a connected sensor is faulted or activated. They are useful for quickly letting you know about system events. You can set up individual chimes for each zone on the system. However, no chimes will be produced if system-wide chimes are disabled. If there is a zone for which you don't want any chime sounds to occur, then you can set its chime setting to None.

Using 2GIG Sensors On a Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Jarrett explains how you can use 2GIG Sensors with the 345 MHz version of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. Any sensor you want to use with the system will first need to be enrolled. We recommend auto-enrolling, as this ensures that the sensor can communicate with the panel successfully. Any uni-directional 2GIG 345 MHz Sensor can be used with the 345 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus. Please note that this does not include the 2GIG eSeries Encrypted Sensors, which are for the 2GIG GC2e and 2GIG GC3e only.

We are sometimes asked by users with PowerG Systems if using PowerG Motion Detection Sensors is the best option. And the answer to that question is usually yes. There are some rare occasions where choosing a legacy RF motion detection sensor is preferable, but this is usually not the case.

PowerG Motion Sensors are known for their incredible wireless range (up to 2 km from certain system), 128-bit AES encryption and frequency hopping spread spectrum for wireless security, and ability to be easily programmed. They are known for being some of the best sensors in the entire industry. Compatible systems for PowerG Motion Sensors include all versions of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, the DSC Iotega, and any DSC PowerSeries NEO with an added wireless transceiver.

As this time, the following PowerG Motion Detection Sensors are sold by Alarm Grid:

• DSC PG9902 Outdoor Curtain PIR Motion Sensor
• DSC PG9914 PIR Motion Sensor
• DSC PG9924 Curtain PIR Motion Sensor
• DSC PG9974P Mirror Optics PIR Motion Sensor
• DSC PG9984P Dual-Tech Motion Sensor
• DSC PG9994 Outdoor PIR Motion Sensor

Of these devices, the DSC PG9914 is by far the most popular. This is considered the "standard" PowerG Motion Sensor, while the others are used in more specific and unique situations. However, they all offer the great features of PowerG. Assuming that you are just looking for a standard motion sensor for indoor use, the DSC PG9914 is almost always the best option. If you are wondering if you should get a PowerG Motion Sensor, the answer is usually yes.

Keep in mind that if you have a DSC Iotega or a DSC PowerSeries NEO with an added transceiver that PowerG Motion Sensors are the only wireless motion sensors that you can use. The DSC PowerSeries NEO can use hardwired motion sensors, which opens up a whole new world of different possibilities. But for this discussion, we will assume that the user is only considering wireless motion sensors. We will also assume that the user is just looking for a standard motion sensor. We won't dive into the more unique motion sensors such as curtain motion sensors, outdoor motion sensors, or dual-tech motion sensors.

With all things considered the DSC PG9914 is almost always the best motion sensor to use with a PowerG System, assuming that the user is just looking for a basic motion sensor for indoor use. There are a couple of exceptions that may apply if the user has a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. And we will discuss those exceptions in a moment. But for all intents and purposes, going with a PowerG Motion Sensor if your system supports PowerG Sensors is almost always recommended.

If you have a 319.5 MHz Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, then you may consider the Qolsys QS1231-840 IQ Motion-S. The advantage to this motion sensor is that it has a lower price point than the DSC PG9914. However, that is the only real advantage the IQ Motion-S offers. The DSC PG9914 offers a much further wireless range, and its 128-bit AES encryption is more secure than the rolling code "S-Line" offered from the IQ Motion-S. But if communication range and wireless security are not important to you, then you might want the IQ Motion-S instead. Of the PowerG Systems, it only works with the 319.5 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus.

For users of the 345 MHZ Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, the Honeywell 5800PIR-COM is sometimes preferred over the PG9914. The Honeywell 5800PIR-COM has a coverage range of 60 feet by 80 feet, which is much larger than the 39-foot coverage area of the PG9914. If coverage range is considered the most important factor, then the Honeywell 5800PIR-COM might be the best option. But keep in mind that the Honeywell 5800PIR-COM has a much shorter wireless communication range (200 feet nominal), and it offers no wireless encryption protection. Also consider that the Honeywell 5800PIR-COM offers no pet immunity, while the DSC PG9914 offers pet immunity for small animals weighing up to 85 pounds. Remember, the Honeywell 5800PIR-COM will only work with the 345 MHz version of the IQ Panel 2 Plus.

If you need extra help choosing a motion detector for your system or if you want to learn more about any of our products or monitoring services, please reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have. Remember that our support hours run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Like most modules that use end of line resistors for zone monitoring, the IQ Hardwire 16-F is no exception. It comes standard with 4.7k resistors, or it can support end of line resistor (EOLR) learning for values ranging from 1k to 10k. But the standard 4.7k resistors have five (5) bands.

The Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-F is 319.5 MHz wired to wireless converter. It allows you to easily convert a wired system into a wireless system by taking over your existing hardwired sensors. The hardwired sensors will connect directly with the the IQ Hardwire 16-F module, and the converter will send 319.5 MHz wireless signals on their behalf. The system will then treat these hardwired sensors as wireless zones. You just need to make sure that you have enough wireless zones on the system itself. Each Hardwire 16-F module adds support for 16 additional hardwired zones.

If you aren't familiar with end of line resistors, they are small jumpers that are wired-in at the end of line of zones. The purpose of a resistor is to let the system know that a zone has been physically cut. If someone cuts or tampers with a hardwired zone that is configured with an EOLR, then a short will occur. This will result in a trouble condition on the system. If your system is currently in an armed state, this will cause an alarm. A shorted zone while the system is disarmed will just lead to loss of supervision for the sensor.

You must use an EOLR at each zone for the Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-F, including with zones that do not have a connected sensor and are not actively being used. Any unit manufactured before week 40 of 2019 was required to use 4.7k resistors at all 16 zones. But from week 40 of 2019 and onward, Qolsys began manufacturing units that support end of line resistor learning. These newer units support Legacy Mode (where 1k to 10k resistors can be used) and UL Fire Mode (where 4.7k resistors must be used at every zone). For information on switching between the two (2) resistor modes, please see this FAQ.

What's somewhat unique about the 4.7k resistors included with the Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-F is that they use five (5) bands instead of four (bands) like we mostly encounter. The 5-band resistors for the Hardwire 16-F are Yellow-Violet-Black-Brown-Brown. This equates to a 4.7k ohm resistor with a tolerance of +/- 1%. This differs from the four (4) band 4.7 k resistors that we often see, which are Yellow-Violet-Red-Gold. Those four (4) band resistors offer a tolerance of +/- 5%.

Really, there is no difference in the way you install these resistors. But it can be good to know if you are setting up a a Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-F device. It is advised that you connect the resistors and sensors before attempting to enroll the module with the panel. We also recommend clearing the memory through a factory default for module before enrollment. More information can be found here.

If you have any questions about the Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-F or any of our other products, or if you want to learn more about our monitoring services. Please reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. We operate support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!